If you love the bold flavors of Korean cuisine fused with the comforting creaminess of a classic Italian pasta, then you’re going to be head over heels for this Creamy Korean Ssamjang (쌈장) Pasta. It’s a magnificent marriage of rich, savory ssamjang with tender pork belly, all enveloped in a luscious, velvety sauce that clings beautifully to perfectly cooked spaghetti. This dish is a true flavor powerhouse that’s equally satisfying, unique, and surprisingly simple to make, turning an ordinary weeknight dinner into a memorable feast.

Creamy Korean Ssamjang (쌈장) Pasta Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering your ingredients for this recipe is like setting the stage for a culinary adventure — each component plays a crucial role. From the hearty pork belly to the punchy ssamjang, and the creamy parmesan-cream sauce, these ingredients are straightforward but work together to deliver incredible depth, texture, and color.

200g spaghetti: The perfect canvas to hold every bit of that creamy, spicy sauce.

2 slabs pork belly (~150g): Provides rich, succulent bites with a tender, crispy finish.
1 tbsp butter: Adds a silky smoothness and a subtle richness to the sauce.

1 tbsp minced garlic: Brings aromatic warmth and depth to the flavor profile.
3 tbsp ssamjang: This Korean fermented soybean paste is the star ingredient, packing umami and spice.

1/3 cup Parmesan cheese + more for serving: Introduces a nutty sharpness that elevates the creaminess.
3/4 cup cream (~200g): Creates the luxurious, velvety base of the sauce.
Black pepper to taste: Adds a subtle heat and complexity.

Red pepper flakes to taste: Kicks up the spicy factor just enough to excite the palate.
Reserved pasta water: Essential for adjusting sauce consistency naturally.
Salt to taste: Balances and brightens all flavors.

Green onions: Fresh and crunchy garnish for a burst of color and mild sharpness.
Soft boiled egg: Optional but highly recommended for adding creamy richness when sliced on top.
Kimchi: The perfect tangy, fermented partner to cut through the richness.

How to Make Creamy Korean Ssamjang (쌈장) Pasta

Step 1: Cook the Pork Belly

Start by pan-frying the pork belly slabs over medium heat until they’re cooked through and beautifully browned. This process renders out fat and crisps the edges just enough, creating irresistible texture. Once cooked, cut the pork belly into bite-sized chunks, season lightly with salt, and set them aside to keep warm. This savory pork is what gives the dish its hearty backbone.

Step 2: Boil the Pasta

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and add the spaghetti. Cook it until al dente because you want the pasta to have a slight bite that holds up well when tossed in the sauce. Remember to reserve about a cup of the pasta water before draining — this starchy liquid is pure gold for adjusting your sauce.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Ssamjang Sauce

While the pasta cooks, melt the butter in a large pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and ssamjang, sautéing until the garlic is fragrant and the ssamjang is well incorporated. Pour in the cream and stir everything together, letting it simmer gently for about 3 minutes. This simmer time deepens the flavors and thickens the sauce slightly. Toss the cooked pork belly back into the pan to reheat and mingle with the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Pasta and Sauce

Add the cooked spaghetti directly into the pan with the sauce. Sprinkle in the Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, and black pepper, then begin mixing everything thoroughly. To achieve that irresistible silky texture, slowly drizzle the reserved pasta water a little at a time while mixing until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. This step is key — you won’t use all the pasta water, just enough to loosen and beautify the sauce.

Step 5: Final Seasoning and Serving

Give your pasta a final taste and adjust the salt if necessary. Serve the Creamy Korean Ssamjang (쌈장) Pasta immediately, generously topped with more Parmesan cheese and freshly chopped green onions. Adding a soft boiled egg on top is like the cherry on top, lending even more creaminess and wholesome goodness as the yolk runs through each bite.

How to Serve Creamy Korean Ssamjang (쌈장) Pasta

Garnishes

To really make your dish pop, sprinkle finely chopped green onions for a fresh and bright contrast. A dusting of extra Parmesan adds nuttiness, while a few red pepper flakes scattered on top bring eye-catching flecks of spice. The soft boiled egg is optional but highly encouraged — its glossy yolk enriches every forkful.

Side Dishes

Kimchi is the quintessential sidekick to this pasta, providing that zingy, fermented crunch that perfectly contrasts the creamy sauce. A simple cucumber salad or quick pickled radish can add refreshing brightness. If you want something heartier, steamed veggies like bok choy or sautéed mushrooms tie in perfectly without overwhelming the main star.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the Creamy Korean Ssamjang (쌈장) Pasta in individual shallow bowls, layering the pork belly pieces on top like little jewels. Drizzle a little extra cream or spicy chili oil around the edges for drama. If you’re feeding a crowd, present the pasta family-style on a large platter garnished with herbs and sliced green onions for a colorful, inviting centerpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This pasta tastes fantastic cold or warmed up, but if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep the soft boiled egg separate if you’re not eating it immediately, as it’s best fresh.

Freezing

The creamy nature of this pasta means it’s not ideal for freezing due to potential separation of dairy. For best results, enjoy it fresh or within a couple of days stored in the fridge.

Reheating

When reheating Creamy Korean Ssamjang (쌈장) Pasta, do so gently over low heat on the stovetop or in short bursts in the microwave. Stir often and add a splash of cream or reserved pasta water to coax the sauce back to that silky finish you fell in love with.

FAQs

Can I use other types of pasta for this recipe?

Absolutely! While spaghetti works beautifully, you can swap in linguine, fettuccine, or even penne. Just adjust the cooking time according to the shape and size.

Is ssamjang very spicy?

Ssamjang carries a mild to moderate heat depending on the brand, balanced with savory and fermented flavors. If you prefer less spice, start with a smaller amount and adjust to taste.

Can I substitute pork belly with another protein?

Yes! Thinly sliced chicken thighs or beef strips can work well if you’re looking for a different protein but want to keep that rich umami flavor.

How do I make a soft boiled egg perfectly every time?

Boil water, gently add eggs, and cook for exactly 6-7 minutes depending on size, then cool immediately in ice water to stop cooking. This method yields a creamy yolk that’s perfect for topping your pasta.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe as is is not gluten-free due to the spaghetti and ssamjang which can contain wheat. You can swap regular pasta for gluten-free pasta and check labels carefully to adapt it.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving something that wow’s with every bite, the Creamy Korean Ssamjang (쌈장) Pasta is an unbeatable choice. This dish brings together the best of two worlds — bold Korean flavors and creamy Italian comfort — in a way that’s simple yet unforgettable. Trust me, once you try it, it’ll become one of your go-to favorites that you can’t wait to share with friends and family.